Rows of battery racks at the Salem Smart Power Center in Salem, Oregon. The Battelle-led Pacific Northwest Smart Grid Demonstration Project, will use the center’s 5-megawatt energy storage system to test several smart grid technologies and approaches. | Photo courtesy of Portland General Electric.
America’s electrical grid was born more than a century ago, when our electricity needs were simple -- and our demand for power was much lower. As American homes and businesses take on ever-increasing numbers of electronic devices and technological capabilities, utilities need ways to learn about (and respond to) changing electricity demand in real time. The Smart Grid makes this possible, resulting in more reliable electricity for all grid users.
The Energy Department is investing in strategic partnerships to accelerate investments in grid modernization. We support groundbreaking research on synchrophasors, advanced grid modeling and energy storage -- all key to a reliable, resilient electricity grid that’s ready to power the generations ahead.
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How much do you know about the electric grid? Test your knowledge with our grid IQ quiz!
Our new infographic shows how electricity is generated, transmitted and distributed for use in our homes.
Learn about synchrophasors and how they are helping grid operators keep power flowing reliably to American homes and businesses.
From smart meters to energy-saving apps -- an overview of the many capabilities a smarter, more powerful grid makes available to you.
